The smarter E Europe responds with special exhibition to policy headwinds, energy security debate

Many long-standing players in the German renewable energy sector see echoes of past policy disputes in the current debate on energy policy, which includes calls to abolish feed-in tariffs and introduce a so-called redispatch reserve. Back in 2013, then Federal Environment Minister Peter Altmaier triggered heated discussions with his proposed “electricity price brake,” after which framework conditions for renewable energy expansion deteriorated significantly.

“Things are different this time,” says Markus Elsässer, Managing Director of Solar Promotion, co-organizer of The smarter E Europe. Through the special exhibition “Renewables 24/7,” the organizers aim to demonstrate that a secure, reliable, and fully renewable energy supply around the clock is both technically feasible and economically viable.

According to the organizers, the exhibition goes beyond previous thematic showcases. Located in Hall C5, it is designed not only to present technologies but also to send a policy message: the energy transition remains achievable, economically sound, and an opportunity for European industry. “We cannot afford to stand by without pushing back in the face of political headwinds,” says Elsässer, adding that part of this effort involves highlighting recent sector achievements.

Situation in 2026 “fundamentally different” from 2013

Elsässer cites three reasons why the current situation differs from earlier policy debates. First, the sharp decline in renewable energy costs. A supporting study commissioned from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE), to be presented on the first day of the event, illustrates how these cost reductions affect the overall energy system. Titled “Cost-Optimal Transformation of the German Energy System by 2045,” the study uses Germany as a case study to show how a renewables-based system can ensure security of supply.

Second, he points to stronger industrial backing. The exhibition is supported by more than 20 industry sponsors, including Siemens. “The energy transition is an industrial policy opportunity,” Elsässer says. Electrification is increasingly seen as a driver of innovation and economic growth. The “Industry” area will therefore showcase best-practice examples of companies already using renewables, storage, flexibility options, and digital control systems.

Third, he highlights deeper societal and technological integration of the energy transition. Supported by twelve German and European associations, the exhibition reflects how renewables are no longer a standalone sector. Heat pumps, electric mobility, battery storage, flexibility solutions, sector coupling, and bidirectional charging are now part of an integrated energy system.

Platform for exchange with industry experts

Beyond exhibits and information panels, the special exhibition also serves as a discussion forum. Solar Promotion has engaged industry figures such as author Tim Meyer to lead thematic areas and interact with visitors. On Tuesday, a panel including media expert Christian Stöcker and climate activist Luisa Neubauer will discuss the topic: “The energy transition only fails in our minds.”

Elsässer argues that the debate around the “dunkelflaute” (periods of low wind and solar generation) is misleading, and that supply remains reliable even under such conditions. The exhibition aims to counter common objections to a fully renewable energy system and demonstrate its technical, economic, and societal viability. A 40-minute film on the exhibition has also been produced, with a trailer already available.